James W. Hong, Michael A. Bauer and John A. O'Neill
Department of Computer Science
University of Western Ontario

Abstract

In order for designers and implementors to evaluate interoperability, trade-offs, performance
of algorithms and protocols within distributed applications, experimentation is often necessary.
Results obtained from experiments can be ultimately used to improve on the performance, efficiency
and reliability of the applications during their operations. In this paper, we consider a
general architecture for a distributed applications testbed. We report on the design and implementation
of a specific distributed applications testbed for the experimental study of problems
related to X.500 distributed directories. Our design and experiences can be useful in the development
of similar testbeds for other distributed applications.

yA more concise version of this paper has been presented at the 1993 International Conference on Computing and
Information, Sudbury, Canada, May 27-28
?This research work is supported by IBM Canada and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of
Canada